ND legislative session will focus on oil growth

Gov. Jack Dalrymple proposed adding 162 new positions across the state in his recent budget address, with 155 of those jobs to enhance public safety and respond to population growth in western South Dakota.

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By Associated Press

Crookston Times - Crookston, MN

By Associated Press

Posted Dec. 31, 2012 at 9:30 PM

By Associated Press

Posted Dec. 31, 2012 at 9:30 PM

Bismarck, N.D.

One of the major focuses of North Dakota's legislative session this year will be adding state employees to deal with rapid growth in the state's oil fields.

The Dickinson Press reports that Gov. Jack Dalrymple proposed adding 162 new positions across the state in his recent budget address, with 155 of those jobs to enhance public safety and respond to population growth in western South Dakota.

The governor has recommended adding 15 North Dakota Highway Patrol troopers, adding 23 new positions in the state Oil and Gas Division, and additional staff for the North Dakota Bureau of Investigation, courts and other agencies that deal with public safety.

Another 10 new jobs would be added to the North Dakota Health Department, including officials who would oversee oil spill cleanups.